Harrowby United appoint Durrands as director of women’s football

Harrowby United this week announced the appointment of Paul Durrands as director of women’s football at the club.

Paul has a wealth of experience in the game at all levels and recently managed Rotherham United ladies’ team. He he also has links with the Arrows, having played for the team in the 1980s.

Club chairman Jason Lee said it was a fantastic appointment for Harrowby: “Paul is well known and respected in the ladies’ game and was wanted by several league clubs prior to choosing us here at the Environcom Stadium.

“We are always looking at growing and improving what we have here at Harrowby, therefore this appointment shows the commitment in what we can do for the community, and will not just complement the first team but also our growing youth set-up.”

With the recent successes in the women’s World Cup, there is an increased interest in the ladies’ game and with no other team in the area, Harrowby believe it gives those looking to play the game the chance to give it a try.

Harrowby will be setting up training and trial days over the next few months with the goal of having a couple of teams ready for the 2016/17 season.

Paul said he was very pleased to join the set-up at Harrowby and was impressed by the vision that the club had going forward, and felt like he’d “come home”.

Paul said: “It’s a privilege for me to come back to my old stomping ground from the 80s as I have many fond memories of my playing time here.

“I was impressed with Jason’s presentation of what he wants for the future of the club and the aim to gain an FA Charter Standard.

“I’m pleased to help Jason achieve that at Harrowby United as it would be fantastic for the club.

“There’ll be a lot of hard work to achieve this certification but with over 20 years’ experience in women’s football, I hope I can play my part in the club achieving that goal.”